2022 Christmas and Holiday Events in Miami

Ho! Ho! Ho! Stringing our lights around the palm trees and Santa is getting ready to surf!

Christmas in Miami is about enjoying the sunshine and gorgeous breezy weather!

And to get into the spirit, our regular events are back with plenty of lights, christmas carols and holiday cheer... Zoo Lights, Winterland at the Farm, Santa's Enchanted Forest... they are back this holiday season! Here are our top picks, from holiday villages, fantastic light strolls, holiday concerts and musicals and of course, the Nutcraker...

As in all public holidays, government offices, schools, post offices, banks and public libraries will close on Christmas Day. Many restaurants remain open and offer special celebratory meals, brunches, dinners, cocktails...

And this is the perfect time to head outdoors and enjoy the fresh air and gorgeous "winter" weather. Migrating birds and hybernating manatees have arrived, this is a good time for a visit to the Everglades, enjoy the beautiful wildlife or a thrilling airboat ride! Please note that some parks will be closed on Christmas Day.

Latest on Coronavirus:

Events may be cancelled / postponed / rescheduled due to the current Coronavirus health precautions. Please check with event organizers for updates.

Here are this year's most popular Christmas and Holiday Season events and celebrations in Miami:

Christmas Festivals, Fairs, Lights...

Christmas in Miami: Christmas Tree Lightings

Santa's Enchanted Forest - November 9, 2022 to January 8, 2023
NightGarden Magical Light Spectacular at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens - Select dates Thursdays thru Sundays, November 11, 2022 to January 8, 2023
Symphony In Lights Holiday Celebration at Gulfstream Park - November 12 - December 31, 2022
Tree Lighting at Shops at Merrick Park - November 17, 2022
Magic of Lights at Homestead Miami Speedway - a Drive-Thru Experience - November 18, 2022 to January 1st, 2023
Open-Air Holiday Markets at Dania Pointe - Select Fridays: November 11 and 25, December 9 and 23, 2022
Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami - Select nights November 25 - December 30, 2022
"A Jazzy Holiday" Historic Holiday Decor at the Deering Estate and Holiday Evening Strolls - November 25, 2022 to January 6, 2023
Winterland at the Farm - Thursday November 25 and Saturdays and Sundays from November 26 to January 8, 2023
Holiday Tree Lighting at City of Doral - December 2, 2022
Doral Holiday Celebration at the Park - December 9, 2022
Winterfest Boat Parade - December 10, 2022
Snow Fest and Holiday Parade at NMB City Hall - December 10, 2022
Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens - December 11, 2022 - January 1, 2023
Winter Wonderland at North Shore Park - December 16, 2022
Meet & Greet with Santa at Sandrells River Theater - December 22 - 23, 2022
Garden of Lights at Flamingo Gardens - December 16-23 and 26-30, 2022
Magical Snowfall at Dolphin Mall - November 23, 2022 to January 8, 2023
Riverside Holiday Village at the Wharf - TBA December Thursdays thru Sundays
Santa On The Beach at Ft. Lauderdale Beach - TBA

And in the Holiday Entertainment Calendar

Christmas Concerts and Entertainment in Miami: The Nutcracker

Holiday Traditions Around The World: Smart Stage Matinee Series - November 30, 2022 at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
A Christmas Wish With Herb Alpert and Lani Hall - December 2, 2022 at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Symphony of the Americas: Holidays with the Symphony! - December 6, 2022 at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Andrea Bocelli Christmas Tribute - December 16, 2022 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center
Christmas With Love, The Concert: Captain Sandy Yawn & Leah Rae - December 17, 2022 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center
Baby Shark Live! The Christmas Show - December 15, 2022 at the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Miami City Ballet: The Nutcracker - December 16 - 24, 2022 at the Ziff Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center
Andrea Bocelli - December 18, 2022 at the FTX Arena
Y100 Jingle Ball: Charlie Puth, Backstreet Boys, Black Eyed Peas & Big Time Rush - December 18, 2022 at the FLA Live Arena (formerly BB&T Center) Sunrise
A Christmas Wish With Herb Alpert & Lani Hall - December 2, 2022 at the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
Arts Ballet Theater's The Nutcracker: Smart Stage Matinee Series - December 16 - 18, 2022 at The Parker, Ft. Lauderdale
Cirque Dreams: Holidaze - December 28 - 29, 2022 at the Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
The State Ballet Theater of Ukraine: Sleeping Beauty - December 29, 2022 at The Parker, Ft. Lauderdale
Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert - December 30, 2022 at the Adrienne Arsht Center

Christmas Services

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass and Services - Midnight Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Where To Stay, Dine, Party

Best Christmas Hotels For Spending The Holidays in Miami Top picks for staycations in Miami over Christmas and their Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinners, Brunches, Kids Events, Santa Visits...
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Dinner in Miami - 2022 TBA

And check out this year's New Year's Eve Holiday events in Miami.

Booking.com

Christmas Festivals, Fairs, Tree Lightings...

Santa's Echanted Forest

The largest Christmas-Themed Amusement Park and Carnival is back with its millions of dazzling lights, South Florida's tallest christmas tree, and the carnival rides for little ones and those wanting a little more extreme.
In a new location in Doral for the 2022 season, Santa's new home is bigger than ever with more than 40 acres of attractions, plus 3 entrances and expansive parking. It is a huge sprawling lively event, just coming to see the lights is worth the trip. Tons of entertainment for kids and families round it all up.
There are the many live shows, games, magic acts, mazes, all sorts of rides, from carrousels to roller coasters and drop towers and of course, the carnival food!

When? November 9, 2022 to January 8, 2023 - 5:00pm to Midnight
Where? 7500 NW 87th Avenue, Miami, Florida 33166
How Much? Adults (9-64) $42.99, Children (3-8) and Seniors 65+ $34.58. Season Passes, military discounts, group discounts and express passes available.

More Info: Santa's Enchanted Forest

NightGarden a Magical Light Spectacular

NightGarden Magical Light Spectacular at Fairchild

An enchanted, illuminated experience full of fantasy and wonderment where things like the Wise Talking Tree, Flying Fairies and a Sunflower Maze come to life.
Come and marvel at unbelievable live effects such as holographic butterflies and floating orchids throughout multiple acres of dazzling magic.

When? Select dates Thursdays thru Sundays, November 11, 2022 to January 8, 2023
Where? Fairchild Tropical Botanic Gardens at 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables, FL 33156
How Much? General Admission $35, Children 10 and under $30, plus service fees. Discounts for Fairchild members, students, senior, military, group (min. 6) bundle available.

More info: www.thenightgarden.com

Tree Lighting at Shops at Merrick Park

What? "Back to Tradition" Merrick Park's 19th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, sponsored by Nicklaus Children's Hospital and Belmont Village Senior Living, is one of the largest tree lighting ceremonies and holiday celebrations in South Florida. The event will include the 50-foot tree-lighting and a live performance by South Florida's own Camie Liz. Attendees will also enjoy a variety of interactive activities, entertainment and a highly anticipated appearance by Santa Claus who will kick-off the festive season.
The Miami Royal Ballet and Coral Gables Senior High School Gablettes will add to the festive spirit along with holiday costumed characters and a 360° photo booth.
One of the event highlights is Santa's grand arrival down San Lorenzo Avenue on the Coral Gables Fire Department's fire truck. Special guest host Belkys Nerey, award-winning co-anchor of WSVN Channel 7 News, will help flip the magical switch along with Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago to illuminate the tree, signaling the official start of the holiday shopping season.

When? Thursday November 17, 2022 - 6:00 pm
Where? Shops at Merrick Park at 358 San Lorenzo Avenue, Coral Gables FL 33146
How Much? FREE! Attendees are encouraged to spread the warmth of the season and bring unwrapped toys for children in care of Nicklaus Children's Hospital.

More info, Directions and Parking: www.shopsatmerrickpark.com

Symphony In Lights Holiday Celebration at Gulfstream Park

The entire property will be illuminated with more than 250,000 LED lights, all set to the sounds of holiday favorites from yesterday and today.
A 10-minute light show will begin at the top of every hour from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, selfies with Santa and snow show on opening night November 12.

"Symphony in Lights" is not only the perfect opportunity to experience some holiday magic, but also to enjoy shopping, dining and boundless entertainment at Gulfstream Park Village's open-air setting.

When? November 12 - December 31, 2022
Where? Gulfstream Park at 901 S. Federal Hwy, Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
How Much? FREE

More info: Symphony in Lights at Gulfstream Park

Magic of Lights at Homestead Miami Speedway

What? A Magical Drive-Through Holiday Experience! This is a unique and dazzling drive-through holiday lights experience to celebrate the season. Pile everyone into the car and experience Magic of Lights from the safety and comfort of your own car as you wind through the sparkling path.
At every turn, the magical route is overflowing with spectacular light displays that bring to life your favorite holiday scenes and characters of the season using the latest LED technology and digital animations.

When? November 18, 2022 - January 1, 2023 - 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Where? Homestead Miami Speedway at One Ralph Sanchez Speedway Blvd, Homestead, FL 33035

How Much? Price is per vehicle: standard $15 (advanced online purchase), Limo/Party Bus $40 (advanced online purchase)

More info: www.magicoflights.com/events/homestead/

Open-Air Holiday Night Market at Dania Pointe

What? Dania Pointe, known for distinctive shopping, quality dining, luxury living, and its flourishing business district, announces a festive holiday season with celebrations, shopping, and live entertainment to get everyone in the joyful spirit. The Lawn at Dania Pointe will become home to inspired Holiday Markets featuring local handmade and artisan gifts. Shop handmade artisan gifts, ornaments, homemade treats, and holiday items under the twinkling lights from local craft makers and artisans curated by @StyleMarket305.

When? Select Fridays: November 11 and 25 December 9 and 23, 2022 - 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Where? Dania Pointe at 139 S Compass Way, Dania Beach, FL 33004

How Much? FREE

More info: www.daniapointe.com

Zoo Lights at Zoo Miami

It's that magical time of the year as the park transforms into a fabulous array of shimmering trees and dazzling (animal-shaped of course) lights that adorn every corner of this fantastic animal kingdom.

What else? Appearances by Santa (until December 23), animal presentations, arts & crafts and letters to Santa (limited spaces available), hot cocoa and cookies (fee), Snowman's River Boat Rides ($5 per person)

When?: Select nights November 25 - December 30, 2022 - 6:30 pm to 10:00 pm
Where?: Zoo Miami at 1 Zoo Boulevard, 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177
How Much?: $20.95 per adult and $18.95 per child age 3 - 12 plus tax

More Info Here: www.zoomiami.org

Chimp with Christmas Presents at Zoo Miami

Winterland at the Farm

With this 60-degree weather, what better way to warm up and get ready into the holiday spirit with family and friends than with some Snow, Holiday Treats, Hot chocolate and much more while you can meet Santa Claus, Nix the Snowman and Sprinkle the Gingerbread Cookie at a beautiful illuminated Forest.

Holiday treats, hay rides, paddleboat rides, Santa, pony rides, and many more activities for kids!

When?: Thursdays through Sundays late November to early January
Where?: Pinto Farm at 14890 SW 216 Street, Miami, FL 33170
How Much?: $34.99, children under one free, includes paddle boat rides, tractor rides, pony rides, race track, petting zoo, hay maze, and of course you get to meet Santa.

More info: www.pintofarm.com

Christmas at the Deeering Estate

"A Jazzy Holiday" Historic Holiday Decor: With over a dozen holiday trees, from the grand 17-foot tree in the Great Hall, to multiple smaller trees throughout the historic houses that are lavishly decorated to accentuate the architectural details and fine furnishings of the historic house museum.

The Deering Estate has assembled a team of top designers that will once again transform the homes for the holiday season, led by its award-winning Designer-in-Residence, Alfredo Brito.

When? November 25, 2022 - January 6, 2023
How Much? Adults $15, Children (4 - 14) $7

Holiday Evening Strolls: Stroll the main grounds and the Historic Homes as they light up in the night. Enjoy the warmth of a campfire and showings of holiday films! Children can also bring their letters to Santa to drop off. Wrap up the night as Mrs. Claus arrives to read bedtime stories to the children from afar.

When? December 2 and December 14, 2022 - 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm
How Much? Adults $15, Children (4 - 14) $7

Story Time and Photos with Santa: Enjoy story-time with Santa's elves and photos with Santa (for an additional fee) inside the Great Hall. Children can participate in holiday arts and crafts activities.

When? December 17, 2022 - 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
How Much? Adults $15, Children (4 - 14) $7

Where? The Deering Estate at 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33157

More info: www.deeringestate.org

Holiday Tree Lighting at City of Doral

What? Join us as we light up our 34ft Holiday Tree and the Government Center with brilliant lights during a special ceremony full of entertainment and joy!

When? December 2, 2022 - 6:00 pm

Where? Downtown Doral Park at 8395 NW 53rd St

How Much? FREE

More info: www.cityofdoral.com

Doral Holiday Celebration at the Park

What? Celebrate the season with a night full of holiday performances for the whole family. From inflatables, face painters, interactive activities to live-performances, you will surely be filled with the holiday cheer!

When? December 9, 2022 - 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Where? Doral Meadow Park

How Much? FREE

More info: Doral Holiday Celebration at the Park

Ft. Lauderdale Winterfest Boat Parade

Winterfest Boat Parade in Ft. Lauderdale

Sailboats, Yachts, Barges, Gondolas, Kayaks... ANYTHING that floats, all decked up with thousands of lights and a merry spirit, traversing the waters of the intracoastal, what could be more fun this holiday season?!

On its 50th year, the Winterfest Boat Parade has become one of the most awaited events, this year the Ft. Lauderdale shoreline will be coming alive once again.

Some fantastic entries and surprises in the past have included a floating bus, the Galleria Mall reindeer barge, a fire truck, Mickey and Minnie... can't wait for this year's parade!

When?: Saturday December 10, 2022 - sails at 6:30 p.m. ends approximately 10:30 p.m.
Where?: Intracoastal Waterway from Ft. Lauderdale to Pompano Beach. Parade starts at the New River where parading boats will be lining up west from Stranahan House to the Performing Arts Center, then move along towards the Intracoastal where they start heading up. Parade ends just south of Atlantic Blvd, at Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach.
How Much?: Free along parade route! See map below.
Where to watch?: Outdoor Parade Viewing Area at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park: adults $25, children under 10 $15. There is parking within walking distance from the event area. Guests will enjoy a festival atmosphere with live entertainment before and after the Parade. Gates open at 4:00 pm. Parade arrives at the viewing area at approximately 7:00 pm

Great spots to catch the parade is at one of the many bridges over the intracoastal at:

Las Olas Boulevard
Sunrise Boulevard
Oakland Park Boulevard
Commercial Boulevard

More info: Winterfest Boat Parade

Snow Fest and Holiday Parade at NMB City Hall

What? A fun evening featuring live music, food, arts & crafts, games, snow mountain, carnival rides and don't miss the special holiday parade from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

When? December 10, 2022 - 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Where? North Miami Beach City Hall at 17011 NE 19th Ave. NMB FL 33162

How Much? FREE

More info: City of North Miami Beach FB Page

Nights of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens

Pinecrest Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland dotted by thousands of twinkling lights that go up, through and around the whimsical botanical landscape. This year they are adding a whole new section of sparkling holiday lights and a bigger than last year's holiday-themed maze in the gardens.
Eat yummy treats, have a signature Pinecrest Gardens cocktail and enjoy magical Story Time with Mrs. Claus. Stay tuned for Santa Claus special appearances.
On select evenings, admission includes a holiday concert performance in the historic Banyan Bowl.

When? December 11, 2022 to January 1, 2023 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where? Pinecrest Gardens at 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest, Florida 33156
How Much? $15 - $20

More info, tickets and Schedule of Events at the Banyan Bowl: www.pinecrestgardens.org

Winter Wonderland at North Shore Park

What? Tree lighting ceremony, rides, games and entertainment, youth dance performances and visit by special guest.
When? December 16, 2022 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Where?: North Shore Park at 501 72nd Street, Miami
How Much?: Ride wristband $5 for unlimited rides, refreshments for sale

More info: City of Miami Beach FB Page

Meet & Greet with Santa at Sandrells River Theater

Meet and Greet with Santa at Sandrells River Theater

Santa is bringing the North Pole to the Sandrell Rivers Theater! Fantasy Theatre Factory invites you to a delightful meet and greet and holiday photo-op with Santa at Santa's Workshop.
You can also enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate with other holiday treats! Santa's Workshop doors are open to all!

When? December 22 - 23, 2022

Where? Sandrell Rivers Theater at 6103 NW 7th Ave. Miami, FL 33127

How Much? FREE ENTRY. Photo: $10, Photo, Cookie & Hot Chocolate and Cookies available for sale

More info and tickets: www.ftfshows.com

Garden of Lights at Flamingo Gardens

Thousands of lights and holiday decor fill the Arboretum and Wray Lawn at Flamingo Gardens! Flamingo Gardens' annual holiday event features an after-hours, self-guided walk through the botanical gardens adorned with thousands of lights and decorations. Enjoy visits with Santa and some of his friends along with nightly musical performances. Stop by the Flamingo Pond Snack Bar for holiday treats and beverages available for purchase.

When? Dec. 16-23 and 26-30, 2022, 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, until 11:00 pm Fridays and Saturdays
Where?: Flamingo Gardens at 3750 S. Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330
How Much?: Daytime General Admission including Garden of Lights $21.95 per person, children (3-11) $15.95, Evening Admission for Gardens of Lights only after 5:00 pm $15.95, children $12.95

More info: Garden of Lights at Flamingo Gardens

Magical Snowfall at Dolphin Mall

Miami's winter wonderland is back this year. To help bring on the magical flurry, Dolphin Mall will be giving away a light up snowflake wand for kids, and they can dance in the snow to holiday music.

When? Nightly from November 23, 2022 to January 8, 2023 at 7:00 pm, additional snowfall at 9:00 pm Fridays through Sundays. No blizzard on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.
Where? Ramblas Plaza at Dolphin Mall
How Much? FREE

In addition, while you're at the mall, you can visit Photos with Santa, furry friends welcome on select nights also. Reservations strongly recommended, there are several photo packages available.

More info: www.shopdolphinmall.com

Riverside Holiday Village at the Wharf Miami

Every Thursday through Sunday, from 4:00 pm 'till late, enjoy holiday cocktails, 500,000 lights, oversized holiday decorations, and more at the annual Riverside Holiday Village along the historic Miami River!
The Wharf is Miami's premiere open-air event space, located riverside on the historic Miami River.

When? TBC December Thursdays thru Sundays

Where? The Wharf Miami at 114 SW North River Drive, Miami, FL 33130
How Much? Free General Admission.
More info: The Wharf Miami

Santa On The Beach at Ft. Lauderdale Beach

Yes it's Christmas in the sand! Don't miss this year's Santa's traditional candy giveaway along Fort Lauderdale Beach!

With twinkling eyes and smiling faces, Santa and his elves will begin spreading holiday cheer along Fort Lauderdale Beach Park distributing candy canes with glee.

When?: TBA - 11:30 am
Where?: 600 Seabreeze Boulevard (Promenade just north of Ft. Lauderdale Beach Park)
How Much?: FREE!

More Info Here: Santa On The Beach or follow their FB Page.

This Year's Holiday Entertainment Calendar, Concerts and Musicals

Miami City Ballet's The Nutcracker

The holiday tradition you love will become even more magical...

A vibrant and animated winter wonderland comes to life, featuring appearances by The Sugarplum Fairy, toy soldiers, and mischievous mice, all while retaining George Balanchine's iconic choreography and Tchaikovsky's timeless score.

The Nutcracker performances will be at two venues this year:

When? December 16 - 24, 2022
Where? Ziff Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center

When? December 16 - 18, 2022
Where? The Parker, Ft. Lauderdale

How Much? ›› Find The Nutcracker Tickets

Baby Shark Live! The Christmas Show

When? December 15, 2022

Where? Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts

How Much? ›› Find Baby Shark Live! Tickets

Andrea Bocelli

When? December 18, 2022

Where? FTX Arena

How Much? ›› Find Andrea Bocelli Tickets

Cirque Dreams: Holidaze

Cirque Dreams Holidaze is an action-packed holiday celebration with amazing costumes, artistry and acts from every corner of the globe!

Cirque Dreams fuses Broadway-style musicals, cirque artistry + family entertainment into one unforgettable show.

When? December 28 - 29, 2022
Where? Au-Rene Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts
How Much? ›› Find Cirque Dreams: Holidaze Tickets

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert

Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert recreates the beauty of Vienna's golden era, led by a witty and charming conductor who is an expert in Viennese music, Salute to Vienna features a European cast of singers, ballroom dancers, and ballet that brings to life the music of Johann Strauss. Backed by the Strauss Symphony, the performance is rich with selections from beloved operettas, elegant dances, lively overtures, and the beautiful Blue Danube Waltz. Celebrate the start of the New Year with Salute to Vienna New Year's Concert!

When? December 30, 2022
Where? Adrienne Arsht Center Miami
How Much? ›› Find Salute To Vienna Tickets in Miami

Christmas Services

Christmas Eve Midnight Mass and Christmas Day Services

Bright poinsettias, twinkling lights, wonderful nativity scenes, children caroling and the fragrance of firs and incense filling the church, the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass has been a beautiful tradition for as long as I can remember. All our places of worship and the communities go out of their way to welcome and share in the spirit and purpose of the Christmas celebrations.

Here are some places you can attend Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in Miami as well as Christmas Day services. All services will be livestreamed.

Saint Patrick Catholic Church - 3716 Garden Avenue, Miami Beach 33140
Phone (305) 531-1124
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass: Multi-Lingual
Christmas Day:
English: 8:00 am, 9:30am, 11:00am
Spanish: 12:30pm, 7:00pm
More Info
Church of the Little Flower 2711 Indian Mound Trail, Coral Gables 33134
Phone (305) 446-9950
Christmas Eve Cantata: 11:30 pm
Christmas Eve Midnight Mass: Bi-Lingual
Christmas Day:
English: 9:00am, 10:30am, 5:30pm
Spanish: 12:30pm
More Info
Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ 3010 De Soto Blvd. Coral Gables, FL 33134
Phone (305) 446-9950
Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ invites everyone to its historic sanctuary, located directly across from the Biltmore Hotel. Christmas Eve brings four engaging services:
3:00 p.m. German-Language Service
5:00 p.m. Family Service
8:00 p.m. Outdoor Candlelight Service
11:00 p.m. Traditional Candlelight Service
All Christmas Eve services include an extravagant welcome and Christmas cookies! Every family, friend, neighbor, and traveler are invited to join in the joy of Christmas—and every Sunday service and multitude of other activities—at Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ.
More Info